SANTA BARBARA — On Sept. 24, 2000, 19-year-old Kevin Hines attempted to take his own life by jumping from the Golden Gate Bridge. At the time he was experiencing paranoia and hallucinations and immediately regretted jumping. He survived, however, and today he travels the world spreading a message of hope, healing and recovery while teaching people of all ages the art of wellness and the ability to survive pain with true resilience.
On Sept. 16, Santa Barbara City College brings Kevin to the Marjorie Luke Theater where he will share his story in order to help others stay alive and reduce suicides around the world.
The evening will begin at 5 p.m. with community resource tables set up to provide information on mental health and suicide prevention. Kevin, a born storyteller, will start his presentation at 6 p.m. followed by a meet-and-greet and book signing.
In 2016, Mental Health America awarded Kevin their highest honor, The Clifford W. Beers Award, for his efforts to improve the lives of and attitudes toward people with mental illnesses. Previously, he was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award by the National Council of Behavioral Health in partnership with Eli Lilly. Kevin was also named a Voice Awards Fellow and Award Winner by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA). He has has received over 30 U.S. military excellence medals as a civilian, and is a U.S. Veterans Affairs Achievement Winner.
Kevin believes in the power of the human spirit and in the fact that you can find the ability to live mentally well. His mantra: “Life is a gift, that is why they call it the present. Cherish it always.”
This event is free to the public, however tickets are needed since it is expected to draw a sellout crowd. Tickets are available through Eventbrite (click here).
